Strictly Come Dancing’s Nadiya Bychkova ‘complained to BBC about abusive colleague’

| Deputy Entertainment Editor Published August 30, 2026 9:39am Updated August 30, 2026 9:39am Nadiya Bychkova complained to three senior executives about a colleague in 2024 (Picture: BBC/Ray Burmiston) Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Nadiya Bychkova reportedly complained to show bosses about a colleague who ‘made her feel uncomfortable’. The Ukrainian dancer, 37, who joined the show in 2017 before leaving the competition earlier this year, is said to have complained to senior executives in 2024 by asking them to intervene. She reportedly asked three show bosses to keep the unnamed person away from her, laying out reasons why she could not be near them. According to The Mail on Sunday, the BBC offered to investigate the matter, including conducting a formal review, but Bychkova declined. The then HR director also offered to speak to the colleague and told production staff to limit their contact time, but Bychkova reportedly still had to face them. Get personalised updates on Strictly Wake up to find news on your TV shows in your inbox every morning with Metro’s TV Newsletter. Sign up to our newsletter and then select your show in the link we’ll send you so we can get TV news tailored to you. A source told the publication: ‘Nadiya wrote to tell them she was struggling with a particular person involved with Strictly and she was not happy with the response she got. Bychkova joined Strictly in 2017 (Picture: PA) The pro dancer ‘felt her feeling had been downplayed’ (Picture: Nadiya Bychkova) ‘She felt her feelings had been downplayed and that the person’s conduct was being normalised by them. It was a horrific time for her. The BBC offered to open a formal investigation but she felt the person should have been taken out of her orbit. ‘There were several conversations, some verbal and some in writing, but Nadiya didn’t feel like enough was done. ‘The sad thing is it was three women she wrote to. Then, literally a year and a half later, she was got rid of by Strictly’s bosses. ‘It was heartbreaking for her. She was distraught to be axed. Of course, that is going to lead to questions of whether the two were linked.’ A BBC spokesman said: ‘While we are not going to comment on individuals or HR processes, when issues are raised with us they are always handled seriously and appropriate action is taken.’ Bychkova was last partnered up with Chris Robshaw, but the pair were eliminated during week four. The BBC offered to conduct a formal review (Picture: Hoda Davaine/Dave Benett/Getty Images) During the 2021 season of the hugely popular dance competition, she waltzed her way into the quarter-finals with broadcaster Dan Walker and finished in fifth place. She enjoyed a romance with Strictly professional Kai Widdrington for two years during their time on the programme, before separating in 2024. The pair continued to appear on the 2025 series together following their separation, and Kai will return for 2026. Announcing her departure from the show at the time, the BBC said: ‘Nadiya has brought elegance, artistry and unwavering dedication to the ballroom, and she will always remain a cherished member of the Strictly family.’ Deals of the Day The viral LED face mask with over 350 lights that's currently discounted by £100 A friend said I looked 'snatched' – I credit this new Charlotte Tilbury powder Shop MySweetSmile's biggest Bank Holiday offers before they end Back-to-school shopping just got a lot cheaper thanks to Primark The back-to-school essential parents forget every year – and it could cost them Metro has contacted the BBC and representatives for Nadiya Bychkova for comment. Arrow MORE: BBC’s Vigil strikes gold with season 3 – but it’s time to end the show Arrow MORE: ‘I created hit Suranne Jones thriller – I’m shocked at the reaction it’s had’ Arrow MORE: Casualty spoilers and all we know so far for when show returns with 40th anniversary episodes TV Newsletter Sign up and tell us which TV shows you love to watch to get personalised updates every morning.